Does Cold Weather Cause Sickness in Children?
The winter season is rapidly approaching, which begs the question, does cold weather truly cause sickness in children? While it is true that during the winter season, you will see an uptick in the common cold, flu, and stomach viruses, the idea that these sicknesses are directly related to cold weather is a myth. In fact, the fresh winter air is actually healthy for you. As we prepare to enter this winter season, the team at Briarcliff Pediatrics would like to provide you with some essential tips to keep your family healthy and sickness-free.
What illnesses impact children the most during the winter months?
Colds, Flus, RSV, and COVID-19 are all common illnesses that can occur during any season of the year, but especially during the winter season. Many people falsely attribute this to cold weather, but the truth is that these viruses spread both indoors and outdoors. Cold weather tends to cause people to spend more time indoors, leading to the circulation of the bacteria and germs that spread these viruses. If you couple this with poor hygiene habits, you have an environment ripe for spreading illness.
How are these illnesses spread?
There are several ways viruses spread, but two of the most common are through contaminated surfaces and airborne circulation. Germs and bacteria can settle onto surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, water fountains, and toys. If your child touches a contaminated surface and then touches their face, it is possible to become infected.
Likewise, indoor air circulation systems can spread germs and bacteria, especially if large groups of people congregate in a space for an extended period, such as at a school. As this air circulates, you may inhale particles containing viruses, which can lead to infection.
What are the symptoms of these illnesses?
Many of these common winter illnesses share symptoms, making it difficult for parents and caregivers to diagnose the sickness. If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms below, it is best to consult your pediatrician so that you can obtain an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for your child.
- RSV: Older children may experience a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, inflamed eyes, fever, sore throat, and headaches. In infants, RSV symptoms tend to be more severe and can include difficulty breathing, shallow breathing, wheezing, lethargy, and a decrease in activity.
- Cold: Common cold symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, coughing swollen glands, and occasionally a low-grade fever.
- Flu: Typically, children experience a fever, runny nose, headaches, coughing, chills and muscle pain.
- COVID-19: Symptoms can be mild or severe but typically include coughing, fever, difficulty breathing, muscle aches, headaches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, vomiting, and diarrhea.
What can I do to protect my child and family this winter?
First and foremost, don’t be afraid. Yes, there may be an uptick in sickness during the winter months, but there are things you can do to minimize the chances of your child getting sick:
- It is important to breathe fresh air. Break the cycle of breathing recycled indoor air for extended periods of time and allow your kids to play outside. Always ensure your child dresses appropriately for the outside elements.
- Practice good hygiene by encouraging your child to wash their hands with soap and water, especially after using restrooms, touching shared surfaces, and before eating.
- Remind your child not to touch their face since this is a common way to transfer germs.
- Disinfect common and shared surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, and toys.
What should I do if my child gets sick?
Sometimes, your child can get sick even with the best preventative plan. The most important thing you can do if this occurs is to keep your child home from school. Allow your child to get adequate rest and keep them hydrated. You should also schedule a sick visit with your pediatrician so your child can receive a proper diagnosis and plan of care.
There is much to look forward to during the winter season, and sickness doesn’t have to intrude on your plans. If you are concerned about your child’s health this winter, or if you want to schedule a sick visit with Dr. Raymond Deeb, Dr. Rebecca McCoy, or Dr. Nicholas Kelly, please contact Briarcliff Pediatrics. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and health tips.
